How Will You Be Remembered?

I was reading about the passing of Marriott International CEO Arne Sorenson yesterday and there were many tributes given to him from others in the travel industry.

Here are some of the phrases used to describe him:

"he was an incredibly respected man"

"devoted husband, father and friend"

"a true honor to work alongside him"

"a great partner"

"a warm and gracious friend"

"an incredibly inspiring person to so many people"

"when he spoke, people wanted to listen"

"when he led, people followed"

"a visionary leader"

"exceptional human being, endless optimism, perseverance and servant leadership"

"the world is a better place because of Arne Sorenson"

Wow! That is quite the tribute. It just got me thinking about how important it is to be a good person first. No matter what your title how you treat people and how you treat the moments that you are given are the most important mission that you have.

Our jobs are just an avenue to influence people. Mr. Sorenson obviously cared about people first and foremost and influenced them because of that. He was fondly remembered because of that.

Moments of reflection are good. Moments that bring about true evaluation and change are better.

May the life that Arne Sorenson led cause each of us to pause and evaluate our priorities, our purpose and may God bless and comfort his family and friends at this time.